45 years of Polo and 150 years of Piaget – both are happening in 2024. It’s no wonder these hallmark anniversaries are being given a proper celebration. And what better way to do this than with a re-release of the original Polo? Could this be the rebirth of a legend, combining classic looks with modern components? I love the result – the new Polo 79 – which is why I’m so thrilled to share with you today my fascination not only with this watch, but with the entire Polo catalog.
The Polo Is Born
Piaget has been making watches since 1874 and is today the finest example of watchmaking precision. Piaget watches are crafted from gold and precious stones to create stunning jewelry and watchmaking masterpieces. For years, this made Piaget a favorite among customers looking for unique dress watches. By the early 1980s, however, lifestyles were changing; people were leading sportier, more modern lives and wanted a watch to match. They wanted a timepiece that was water-resistant and shockproof, but that still exuded style and elegance.
Piaget responded to this demand with the Piaget Polo. Named after an elite sport, the Polo exemplifies the high standards and luxury lifestyles of its wearers.
The Piaget Polo from 1979
Everything gold – undoubtedly the Polo’s most striking attribute. This contrasted with the popular stainless steel sports watches of the time. The watch’s bracelet was particularly impressive, wrapping perfectly around the wrist and appearing to be made from a single piece of gold – comfort and exclusivity melded beautifully.
The bracelet also has gorgeous surface finishing, with alternating polished and satin-brushed links, and this pattern continues seamlessly through the case and dial, perfecting the elegance and extravagance that Piaget fans love so much. Naturally, this extravagance includes the fact that the watch does not have a crown on its flank, but rather a hidden crown on the back of the case that allows the wearer to set the time.
The inner qualities of the original Polo were as priceless as its outer appearance. Piaget was already known for its ultra-thin mechanical and quartz calibers, having for example introduced the 7P to the market in 1976. At just 1.95 mm thick, it was the thinnest quartz movement in the world at the time and was used to power the first Polo. It enabled Piaget to create a very flat case that was not much thicker than the bracelet, achieving a perfect fit on the wrist.
Piaget Polos
The popularity of the Polo soon meant that it was available in all sorts of models, including round or square/rectangular cases, diamond settings, two-tone gold, and various complications. There was even a Polo with a leather strap. The square/rectangular models were particularly popular with women, thanks to the wonderful symbiosis of their case and bracelet.
At the turn of the century, the Polo was given a new look with the Polo FortyFive, which boasted a case size of 45 mm and a reputation as a proper sports watch. The stainless steel version was a hit, as was the even more luxurious titanium version. The GMT and flyback chronograph models also enjoyed strong demand.
The latest addition to the Polo catalog is the Polo S, with a 42-mm case and signature cushion-shaped dial set in a circular bezel. It’s a classic sports watch you can wear with everything from jeans and a t-shirt, all the way to a business suit.
Piaget Polo 79 – Anniversary Year 2024
When the original Polo was re-released as the Piaget Polo 79, watch fans were asking whether it would achieve the right balance between staying true to its heritage and creating something new. One look at the timepiece, and it was clear that Piaget had done exactly that.
This watch captures the essence of the original. It’s a gold, ultra-thin timepiece created for sporty, on-the-go jet-setters. Powered by an in-house automatic caliber, the Polo 79 responds to today’s preferences for mechanical watches. For the Polo 79, Piaget elected to go with a crown on the flank of the case, making winding and setting the timepiece much easier compared to the original model, which had a crown on the case back. Speaking of which, this model has a see-though case back, allowing you to gaze upon its amazing, ultra-thin caliber. Why hide such a beautiful masterpiece from the rest of the world?
Summary
The Polo 79 sees Piaget delivering a new take on the vintage trend, sending us on a journey back to the 1980s. The heritage and perfection of this watch (inside and out) are an invitation to dream big. Embodying an escapism and appreciation for exclusive, finer things, this is a watch that will make the heart of every watch lover beat faster. You’ll find all kinds of elegant sports watches, but there’s only one that embodies sports elegance like the Piaget Polo.
